Whether you’re considering an air conditioning installation for your property or you already benefit from one, it’s important to know how often air conditioning units need to be serviced.
Servicing and maintenance are essential if you want to enjoy your air conditioning unit for its full lifespan, which can be up to 20 years with the right care!
When Does An Air Conditioning Unit Need A service?
You should get your air conditioning unit checked by a professional at least once a year.
Why once a year? Well, a yearly check can…
- Keep your unit running efficiently by clearing a year’s worth of dust, dirt, and potentially even mould
- Spot worn components and other issues before they become a problem
- Lower your energy bills by ensuring your unit is operating at its best
- Improve air quality by cleaning and changing the filters
- Extend the lifespan of your unit
- Prevent costly repairs
- Keep your manufacturer’s warranty valid (depending on the manufacturer’s terms and conditions)
With all of these benefits in mind, a yearly service of your unit is quite reasonable. Knowing that you need to get your air conditioner serviced once a year will also prevent overspending on unnecessary checks, and it’s well worth it for peace of mind.
6 Signs That Your Air Conditioning Unit Needs A Service
While annual servicing is recommended for both wall mounted and ceiling mounted air conditioning units, watch out for key warning signs that your unit may need attention sooner.
1. Your Unit Struggles To Maintain A Consistent Temperature
If you find that your unit doesn’t maintain a consistent temperature, this may indicate an issue with its cooling system.
An inconsistent temperature output is a sign of a more complex system issue, which could potentially lead to a breakdown if not repaired by a professional. An air conditioning engineer can check if the thermostat, compressor, or refrigerant levels are too low or not functioning properly.
2. You Can’t Feel A Breeze
When you stand in front of your unit, can you feel a firm breeze? If the answer is no, then it’s probably time to call a professional.
Inadequate airflow could indicate that the system (or at least part of it) is broken, most likely due to a blockage, a faulty fan motor, or an electrical wiring issue. Air conditioning servicing means a professional can inspect the defective parts, clear any blockages, and make the necessary repairs.
3. Your Energy Bills Are Rising For No Reason
If you’ve noticed that your energy bills are rising but your unit usage has stayed the same, this could indicate that your system is working overtime due to a fault.
Dirty coils and clogged filters can put stress on your unit, making it less energy-efficient, which can lead to higher running costs. A professional can clean your system, inspect the key components, and get your unit running efficiently again.
4. There’s A Bad Smell Coming From Your Unit
Have you suddenly noticed a bad smell that definitely wasn’t there before? If your nostrils lead you to your air conditioning unit, it’s probably due to a buildup of mould, mildew, or bacteria.
An air conditioning service means a professional can disinfect and replace any mouldy or damaged components, resulting in improved air quality for your property and your health.
Note:If you smell something burning and it’s coming from your air conditioning unit, turn it off and call a professional straight away. Do not turn it on again until it is repaired.
5. Your Unit Leaks
A leaking air conditioning unit means that you either have broken drain pipes, refrigerant problems, or an issue with the unit’s condensate pump.
It’s important to get air conditioner leaks seen to quickly, because they can lead to property damage and mould growth from the extra moisture. Plus, if it’s your refrigerant that’s the issue, the leak can cause irreversible damage, preventing your unit from cooling the space.
6. Your Unit Displays Fault Codes
This is probably the most telling sign that your air conditioner needs a service, or at least, professional attention.
If your control panel displays a fault code, this could mean anything from sensor failures and compressor issues to airflow restrictions. The best course of action is to contact an air conditioning expert to investigate the issue, conduct repairs, and save you money in the long run!
When Is The Best Time To Schedule A Service For Your Air Conditioning Unit?
At LSR Refrigeration, we’ve serviced our fair share of air conditioning units, so we find that the best time to service an air conditioner is in spring, just before summer.
This is because most of our customers use their units in the summer, and a service just before spring ensures your unit is primed and ready to cool your property effectively.
Ready To Book Your Air Conditioner For A Service?
Our air conditioning services span across a variety of locations and sectors. Whether you’d like to book your air conditioner in for a one-time repair or need ongoing maintenance support, we can help.
Contact our team today using our online form, call 01925 413 925, or email info@lsrrefrigeration.co.uk.